Disassembled door lock parts on a workbench with a key and locksmith card. Tools and small components are scattered, conveying a workshop atmosphere.

How Long Does It Take to Rekey a Lock? (Tampa Home & Business Guide)

March 24, 20253 min read

“How Long Does It Take to Rekey a Lock?”

That’s one of the most common questions we get from homeowners, renters, and business owners across Tampa.

Whether you just moved in, lost a key, or need to update access after an employee change — rekeying is fast, safe, and smarter than most people realize.

In this guide, we’ll break down:

  • How rekeying works

  • How long it takes (real numbers)

  • What slows it down

  • What you can expect on-site


Table of Contents

  1. What Does Rekeying a Lock Mean?

  2. How Long It Takes (Average Times)

  3. Factors That Affect Rekey Speed

  4. Rekey vs Replace: Time Comparison

  5. Tampa Pricing (and Bundle Discounts)

  6. FAQ: Lock Rekeying in Tampa


1. What Does Rekeying a Lock Mean?

Rekeying means changing the pins inside your lock to match a new key.
It disables all previous keys without replacing the whole lock.

- You keep your existing hardware
- Only the new key will work
- It’s fast, affordable, and fully secure


2. How Long It Takes (Average Times)

Job Type Time (per lock)

Single Residential Lock 10–15 minutes

Full Home (3–6 Locks) 30–60 minutes

Commercial / Office Setup 15–20 minutes per lock

Smart Lock Rekey / Reprogram 15–30 minutes

High-Security Lock 20–30+ minutes

Most jobs are done in under an hour.


3. What Affects Rekey Speed?

  • Type of lock (deadbolt, knob, smart, mortise)

  • Number of locks being rekeyed

  • Condition of the hardware (rust, stuck pins, etc.)

  • Keyless or keypad integration

  • Whether we’re cutting new keys on-site

Pro On The Go vans are fully stocked to handle all types without running to a shop.


4. Rekey vs Replace: Time Comparison

Task Time per Lock Tools Required

Rekey 10–15 min Pin kit, key blank, tools

Replace 20–30 min New lock install, re-alignment

Rekeying is almost always faster — and more affordable — unless you want to upgrade the lock entirely.


5. Tampa Rekey Pricing (2025)

  • Single Lock: $35–$55

  • Full Home Package: $95–$180

  • Commercial Bundle (5–10 locks): $185–$450

  • Smart Lock Rekey/Reprogram: $60–$120

  • Key Copies On-Site: $5–$10 per key

Ask about our “Move-In Secure” bundle for new Tampa homeowners.


6. FAQ: Lock Rekeying in Tampa

Q: Can I rekey a lock without the original key?
Yes — but it takes longer. We can still rekey it by decoding the lock or removing it entirely.

Q: Will I need to be home during rekeying?
Not always. We can perform scheduled service while you’re away — just let us know in advance.

Q: Can you rekey all locks to use ONE key?
Yes! If your locks are compatible, we can key them alike for convenience.

Q: Is rekeying secure?
Absolutely. It renders all old keys useless — no one can access your property without the new key.


⭐ Real Review

“I thought rekeying would take all day. Jerry finished in under 40 minutes and made all the keys on the spot. Super efficient and way cheaper than replacing everything.”
Mike L., Brandon FL


Ready to Rekey?

Whether it’s your home, business, or new apartment — we’ve got you covered.

CALL 813-534-2911 NOW to Book a Rekey Appointment
Text “REKEY” to (813) 534-2911 for a Fast Quote
Book Online in 30 Seconds


About Pro On The Go Locksmith™

Tampa’s trusted rekeying experts — fast, mobile, professional. We’ve rekeyed over 3,000+ locks across the Bay Area with 5-star results.

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Owner, CEO of Pro On the Go Locksmith

Jerry Paneto

Owner, CEO of Pro On the Go Locksmith

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